Don's comments on the blacks and the Priesthood

Historically, Joseph Smith did ordain at least one black High Priest.  See the historical series, "Children of the Promise," a series of slightly fictionalized historical novels, copiously annotated.  All the events of the series are factual; only the dialogs are fiction.  Josheph Smith welcomed blacks into the church.  Black members were entertained in the Smith home, like anyone else.  This was highly unusual, to put it mildly, in an era when even most abolitionists believed that the white race was superior to the black race.  Brother Joseph was one of the first racial egalitarians.  I have heard uncorroborated legends that Joseph bought slaves in Missouri, taught them to read and write, and then shipped them north to Ohio.  It is certain however, that he preached Abolition from the pulpit in Navoo, and also invited noted Abolitionist speaker to speak there.  It's certain, because the records of these actions, and newspaper reports about them, still exist. 

Blacks did not fare so well under Brigham Young or John Taylor.  Those who held the priesthood were not stripped of it, but were not allowed to perform priesthood ordinances.  Blacks were not allowed into the temple.  To be a black member of the church, between the death of the Prophet Joseph and the Proclamation on the priesthood was to be a second-class citizen in God's kingdom.

I do not know why the Lord wanted it this way.  I feel sure that blacks were not "agents of Satan", even if John Taylor said so, as "The Mormons" states.  If he actually said that.  I am not familiar with his writings or speeches to judge.  LOTS of Church leaders have said many things that are their personal opinions, but have never been adopted as official Church policy.  In any event, the church has once again embraced the egalitarian attitudes of Brother Joseph, as official policy, and I am happy with that.